A prompt response by Kent Police has led to the arrest and charging of a man suspected of burglary following a break-in at a business in Sittingbourne.
Officers were called at approximately 12:30am on Friday, 21 February 2025, to reports of a burglary at a commercial premises on the High Street in Milton Regis. According to reports, a window had been smashed, and several items were stolen from inside before the suspect fled the scene on foot.
Kent Police officers arrived swiftly and, following a search of the area, detained a man believed to be connected to the incident. A cash register reported missing from the premises was recovered during the search.
The suspect, identified as Mark Barton, 43, of Wesleyan Road in Peterborough, Cambridgeshire, was subsequently charged on Saturday, 22 February, with multiple offences, including:
- Burglary
- Going equipped for burglary
- Criminal damage
- Possession of a bladed article
- Obstructing a police officer
Barton appeared before Medway Magistrates’ Court on the same day and was remanded in custody. He is scheduled to appear at Maidstone Crown Court on Friday, 21 March, where he will face the charges.
Police Praise Swift Action
A spokesperson for Kent Police praised the quick response that led to Barton’s arrest, stating:
Thanks to the vigilance of the public and the rapid action of our officers, we were able to detain the suspect and recover stolen property within a short time frame. Burglaries can have a devastating impact on businesses, and we are committed to bringing those responsible to justice.“
Authorities continue to urge residents and businesses to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to help prevent further incidents.
How to Report Suspicious Activity
Anyone with information regarding burglaries or criminal activity in the area is encouraged to contact Kent Police on 101 or report anonymously through Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111.
